Otolaryngology and ENT Surgery

Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)

Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is used to treat patients diagnosed with lacrimal sac or nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO). This can be caused by chronic stenosis of the nasolacrimal duct and can be congenital or acquired. NLDO is common but is not a serious condition.Presenting symptoms include excessive epiphora (tearing) and dacryocystitis (infection). Usually, cases have been refractory to conventional treatment such as warm compresses, massage and probing the nasal passage. If NLDO is left untreated, these symptoms persist and may cause embarrassment for the patient.

The external DCR is standard treatment.  Endoscopic DCR is a minimally invasive procedure performed by ophthalmologists and otorhinolaryngologists to unblock tear ducts and correct other causes of decreased patency of the nasal passages.A decongestant is administered to clear the nasal passage first and then gauze, soaked with anaesthesia that numbs the area and constricts blood vessels, is inserted.A rigid endoscope is inserted into the nasal cavity to the lacrimal sac via the lacrimal duct to explore and confirm the nature of the obstruction. The nasal mucous membrane is incised and removed, to allow for the creation of a window on the lacrimal sac and upper nasolacrimal duct. A portion of the lacrimal and maxilla bone is removed and using a blade, a vertical incision is made in the lacrimal sac and nasolacrimal duct. Silicone tubes can be inserted to assist long-term patency.